Robert F. Kennedy Jr adds blue liquid to drink

Recent news concerning Robert F. Kennedy Jr, the candidate for the position of Health and Human Services Secretary in Donald Trump's administration, has attracted media attention. 

According to the Daily Mail, the politician was spotted adding a blue liquid to his drink. Sources close to the Kennedy family claim it was methylene blue — a substance actively used in alternative medicine.

Methylene blue, as noted in the news, is known for its alleged "health benefits". Proponents of non-traditional approaches to treatment claim that the substance may be useful in combating a range of diseases, including dementia and even cancer. However, experts warn that in large doses it can be dangerous and, conversely, may trigger the development of oncological diseases.

This chemical agent is officially approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of a rare blood disorder — methaemoglobinaemia. Contrary to the claims of alternative medicine practitioners, methylene blue is not a panacea for most illnesses.

Some studies, including 2017 research published in the journal Nature, also highlight the positive impact of methylene blue on the skin, pointing to its antioxidant properties, which may contribute to hydration and protection against ageing. 

However, in the context of its use as an anti-ageing or dementia remedy, experts emphasise that further clinical trials are needed to confirm its efficacy.

In addition, new scientific data suggests potential health risks associated with consuming methylene blue in excessive doses. Specifically, an international team of scientists from several universities concluded that too large quantities of this substance may increase the likelihood of developing cancer.